Aerospace CNC Programmer – 5‑Axis Precision & Growth

Karman Space & Defense; El Monte (CA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Health Savings Account (HSA) with plan

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance

Short‑ and long‑term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a CNC Programmer to support aerospace components on 3-axis and 5-axis machines. You will develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs, design fixtures, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure high‑precision parts for space programs.

The role requires 5+ years of CNC programming experience, proficiency with Catia and Mastercam, the ability to read blueprints, and strong problem solving.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience writing CNC programs in a machining environment.
• Experience operating 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines.
• Experience with Catia, Mastercam, or equivalent CAM software, and familiarity with G-code and M-code.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, process instructions, and engineering drawings.
• Experience operating standard machine shop equipment such as drills, mills, lathes, grinders, and saws.
• Knowledge of standard and metric terminology.
• Ability to calculate machining speeds and feeds.
• Familiarity with machine controls, instrumentation, tooling, and machine setup.
• Ability to adapt to changes and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develops and optimizes CNC programs for complex aerospace components across 3-axis and 5-axis machining platforms.
• Creates and modifies machining strategies to improve efficiency, tool life, and part quality.
• Designs holding fixtures and selects cutting tools to support machining operations.
• Maintains CNC programs to reflect current print and model revisions.
• Collaborates with Production, Quality, and Program Management teams to support effective workflow.
• Applies AS9100 procedures and supports continuous improvement initiatives.
• Follows department processes, safety rules, and company practices.
• Troubleshoots machining or programming issues and recommends actionable solutions.
• Manages work to meet production schedules and deadlines.
• Supports an organized, safe, and clean programming work environment.

Skills

CNC programming

Blueprint reading

Time management

Cross-functional collaboration

Tools

Catia

Mastercam

G-code

M-code

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a CNC Programmer to support aerospace components on 3-axis and 5-axis machines. You will develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs, design fixtures, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure high‑precision parts for space programs.

The role requires 5+ years of CNC programming experience, proficiency with Catia and Mastercam, the ability to read blueprints, and strong problem solving.